British director Steve McQueen's 12 Years A Slave has been named best film at this year's Bafta awards.

The film was nominated in 10 categories, but was beaten in many by Gravity which claimed six prizes, including best director for Alfonso Cuaron.

But the leading actor award went to 12 Years star Chiwetel Ejiofor, who received a standing ovation as he took to the stage to receive his trophy from Uma Thurman at the Royal Opera House in London.

He said he was "so deeply honoured and privileged to receive it" and thanked McQueen for his "artistry and passion".

"You really brought us all through it and had the real vision to tell this extraordinary story," he added.

Cate Blanchett claimed the leading actress trophy after her acclaimed performance in Woody Allen's Blue Jasmine.

She dedicated her award to Philip Seymour Hoffman, who died earlier this month: "Phil, buddy, this is for you, you b******. I hope you're proud."

Ejiofor in 12 Years A Slave

Gravity won the first award of the night, with Mexican director Cuaron taking home the outstanding British film trophy.

The space adventure, which stars Sandra Bullock and George Clooney, has caused some controversy by being listed as a British film, but it was filmed in this country and the team responsible for its visual effects are UK-based.

Among the films it beat were Rush and Philomena. Gravity also collected the awards for best sound, cinematography, visual effects and original music.

A host of Hollywood stars, including Leonardo DiCaprio, Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie, were in the capital for the ceremony, which was hosted by Stephen Fry.

Jennifer Lawrence beat Julia Roberts, Oprah Winfrey, Sally Hawkins and Lupita Nyong'o to win the supporting actress prize. Lawrence stars in American Hustle with Christian Bale, Amy Adams and Bradley Cooper, but was not able to collect her award in person.

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The David O Russell film won original screenplay and its extravagant 1970s hairstyles were also honoured with the best hair and make-up award.

British comedian Steve Coogan won the award for adapted screenplay for Philomena, which he also stars in with Dame Judi Dench.

Ahead of the ceremony Coogan told Sky News that winning in that category would mean more to him that winning a Bafta for his acting.